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FAQs

Explore some of our most frequently asked questions. See below for more information about our metal alloys, components and systems, ordering options, and contact information.

You can request a printed catalog for free. Downloadable versions are also available. Our catalog includes a comprehensive overview of our architectural metal components, such as glass railing, pipe railing, handrails, tubing, handrail brackets, and more.

Mailing Address (USPS)
Julius Blum & Co. Inc.
PO Box 816
Carlstadt NJ 07072

Physical Address and Courier Service (UPS, Fed Ex, or similar)
Julius Blum & Co. Inc.
50 Blum Blvd.
Wood Ridge NJ 07075

Orders can be placed by calling our sales department at 800-526-6293, by faxing at 201-438-6003, by emailing bluminfo@juliusblum.com, or by using our online order form.

No. Julius Blum & Co., Inc. provides stock metal materials exclusively and does not offer custom design, fabrication, or installation services. It has always been our philosophy never to compete with our customers! If you need help finding a metal fabricator, we are always happy to recommend firms.

Except as noted, all architectural metal products in our catalog are supplied in a mill finish. Julius Blum does not handle additional polishing, painting, or anodizing of these items; this would be performed by a professional polisher/finisher or the fabricator. The National Association of Architectural Metal Manufacturers (NAAMM) has an excellent manual to assist in specifying architectural metal finishes.

Yes, Julius Blum offers two online continuing education courses. These can be found on the homepage of the website or by using the following link. https://www.juliusblum.com/continuing-education/

Julius Blum & Co., Inc. stocks a wide range of handrail components and moldings to suit various needs and conditions. However, not all Blum handrails are suitable for every application. Accessibility standards and code authorities often have dimensional limitations on handrail size, eliminating larger handrail mouldings from consideration.

Handrail heights are commonly between 34″ and 38″, while guardrails are 42″ in height. 

A guardrail is often required to have a handrail included as well. While handrails for stairs offer support and guidance, a guardrail can help prevent individuals from falling through the open side of the staircase.

The detail to the right shows a glass railing used as a guardrail. The 3-1/2″ cap rail is at a height of 42″ – too high and too large for use as a handrail. A 1-1/2″ pipe handrail section is mounted at a proper handrail height of 36″. The handrail is mounted using a 307 bracket and a 224 glass mounting adapter kit. The tempered glass must be drilled prior to tempering to permit the use of the 224 (see page 3 in Catalog 21 for more information).

Returns must be pre-approved and made within 30 days of purchase. Returns must be in original packaging and are subject to a 25% restocking fee with a minimum charge of $50. No refunds.

One of the most frequently asked questions we receive is, “What is the difference between bronze and brass?” Both brass and bronze are copper alloys, but architectural bronze is a specific type of brass, often called leaded brass. At Julius Blum, we exclusively stock architectural bronze extrusions (038500) for several key reasons:

  • Color: Architectural bronze has a rich golden color, in contrast to brass’s more yellow tone.
  • Malleability: Bronze is more malleable than brass, making it easier to work with for various architectural applications.
  • Strength: Architectural bronze tubing features a thicker wall (0.100″ to 0.125″ thick) compared to brass tubing (usually 0.062″ thick), providing a stronger section that is better for bending.

All of our cast fittings and brackets are cast in alloy C86500, while our drawn pipe is stocked in alloy C23000, both of which are excellent color matches for architectural bronze.

At Julius Blum & Co. Inc., we prioritize sustainability by stocking architectural metals largely composed of recycled materials. We gladly provide detailed information on the recycled content of our materials for those pursuing LEED certification.

Our commitment to the environment extends to our printed materials. Our catalog is printed on FSC-certified paper, with 100% of the electricity used in its production offset by Green-e® certified renewable energy. Additionally, the paper contains a minimum of 10% post-consumer recovered fiber, supporting our goal of reducing our environmental impact.

No we don’t sell hinges. We are “Julius Blum & Co., Inc.” There is another unrelated company based in Austria called “Julius Blum GmbH” that makes hinges and drawer parts. The web address of “Julius Blum GmbH” is www.blum.com